Pasta with tomato sauce and Mexican vegetables

Name: Pasta with tomato sauce and Mexican vegetables - Otilia L.
Ingredients: 500 g penne; 450 g Mexican vegetables; water; salt; 1 white onion; 1 teaspoon sugar; 120 ml oil; pepper; 450 g tomato paste; 2 garlic cloves; 2 bay leaves; 3; 4 basil leaves; thyme; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1/2 bunch fresh parsley

Sezon - Pasta with tomato sauce and Mexican vegetables by Otilia L. - Recipia

Delicious pasta recipe with tomato sauce and Mexican vegetables Pasta is a versatile and easy-to-cook dish, perfect for any occasion, especially during fasting periods. This recipe for pasta with tomato sauce and Mexican vegetables is not only simple but also very tasty, bringing a mix of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Moreover, it is an economical option, perfect for days when you want to enjoy a healthy and filling meal. Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Total time: 35 minutes Number of servings: 4 Necessary ingredients: - 500 g penne (or any other preferred type of pasta) - 450 g Mexican vegetables (frozen) - water (enough for boiling) - 1/2 teaspoon salt (for water) - 1 medium white onion (finely chopped) - 1 teaspoon sugar (for caramelizing) - 120 ml oil (sunflower or olive) - pepper (to taste) - 450 g tomato paste - 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped) - 2 bay leaves - 3-4 fresh basil leaves (torn into pieces) - thyme (to taste) - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 1/2 bunch of fresh parsley (finely chopped, for garnish) Step-by-step preparation: 1. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, bring water to a boil, adding 1/2 teaspoon of salt. When the water is boiling, add the frozen Mexican vegetables. Boil them for a maximum of 10 minutes, ensuring they remain crisp and colorful. After boiling, drain and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. 2. Boiling the pasta: In the same pot, use the water in which you boiled the vegetables to cook the pasta. Add the penne and boil according to the package instructions, usually between 7 and 8 minutes. The goal is to achieve al dente, meaning they should not break apart. 3. Preparing the tomato sauce: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent. This process will take about 5-7 minutes. You can add a little water if you notice it starts to stick to the pan. 4. Caramelizing the onion: Once the onion is sautéed, add the teaspoon of sugar, which will help caramelize it. Continue to stir until the onion takes on a golden hue. 5. Adding the ingredients for the sauce: Add the chopped garlic, soy sauce, tomato paste, and bay leaves to the skillet. Mix well, then add a cup of the water in which the pasta was boiled. Let the sauce simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. 6. Seasoning the sauce: Add thyme, torn basil, pepper, and salt to taste. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary. 7. Combining the pasta with the sauce: When the pasta is cooked, drain it well and add it to the skillet over the tomato sauce. Mix everything well, leaving it on the heat for 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors. 8. Serving: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with the boiled Mexican vegetables and chopped parsley. You can add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an even more refined taste. Practical tips: - Vegetable variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as grated carrots, peas, or zucchini, depending on your preferences. - Types of pasta: Although penne is ideal, you can also use spaghetti, fusilli, or tagliatelle. - Adding proteins: If you are not strictly fasting, you can add tofu or cooked and diced chicken breast to make the dish even more filling. - Try a splash of lemon: A drop of freshly squeezed lemon juice before serving can add a note of freshness. Nutritional benefits: This recipe is rich in fiber due to the vegetables and whole pasta, providing a good source of complex carbohydrates, essential for energy. Additionally, tomatoes are an excellent source of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which can contribute to heart health. Frequently asked questions: - Can I use whole grain pasta? Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is a healthier option, rich in nutrients and fiber. - How long can I keep leftovers? If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water to prevent drying out. Give yourself the chance to enjoy this simple and tasty recipe for pasta with tomato sauce and Mexican vegetables. Perfect for a quick dinner, but also to impress friends, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!